Need an inspiring story of bridging divides in our world?
See Green Book!
You must see the film Green Book, starring Oscar Winner Mahershala Ali, and Viggo Mortenson. Ali plays master pianist Dr. Don Shirley. Mortensson plays bouncer Tony Villelonga.
My latest movie picks come from… are you ready for this? A.A.R.P. magazine—their annual “Best Movies for Adults” feature that comes out at Oscar time. (Face it, Lindy! You’re no spring chicken! ) I haven’t liked all the movies they recommended, but this one is a huge winner in my book.
The title:
The title, Green Book, comes from “The Negro Motorist Guide Book,” written mid 20th-Century for African-American travelers by Victor Hugo Green. The book detailed resources: places to stay, to shop, to be entertained, to procure repairs, etc. across the country that were friendly to African-Americans. This was a particularly necessary guide during the time of Jim Crow laws enforcing segregation in the south.
Simple plot:
Tony finds himself out of work while his restaurant/bar employer is closed for renovations. Dr. Shirley’s Trio is booked on a tour into the Deep South, and he has the foresight to find and hire a driver and tour assistant to ensure his safety (Tony). Which means a white chauffer and a black meticulously dressed passenger—a startling sight in 1960! The entire thing is that much more wonderful because it is based on real people and events.
The transformation:
Watching the slow and steady transformation of both characters as they are forced into close proximity day after day is truly wonderful. In real life, the two forged a friendship that lasted until their deaths.
The acting:
The frosting on top of the inspirational story cake, is the acting (of course!) Viggo Mortenson put on 45 pounds to play this Italian-American with a voracious appetite. He’s almost unrecognizable from his Lord of the Rings days. Beyond the physical transformation, he absolutely nails the accent, the gestures and the way of being of Tony Villelonga. Wow.
Coach’s Challenge:
Energy flows where attention goes. Spend this week noticing all the places and people in your life that contribute to bringing forth the truth that we are all more alike than we are different. Get on a wait-list for Green Book: through your library, or Netflix, or wherever you source your cinematic entertainment these days! You’ll enjoy the ride!
